Nutritionist Dr Sarah Schenker chooses the best fresh foods and health products to keep you fighting fit against illness.
Beef is a rich source of protein, particularly certain components known as amino acids which are required by the immune system. Glutamine is among the most important amino acids to immune cells. Studies on hospital patients and athletes (both of whom have compromised immunity) show that glutamine improves immunity and reduces the risk of infections. All types of beef are a good protein source. The riches is salt beef, but only tuck into this if your blood pressure is normal and be careful not to exceed the daily limit of 6g of salt. The vegetarion option, soya bean products, contain all essential amino acids and glutamine.
Probiotic bacteria can help to reduce the risk of gut infections as well as easing the symptoms of conditions such s irritable bowel syndrome. Research has shown that people who suffer reccurent bowel infections have recuced numbers of the normal ‘friendly’ bacteria int heir gut and an imbalance or overgrowth of the sometimes harmful bacteria that can cause gastric pain, bloating, diarrhoea and constipation.
Vitamin E is another crucial vitamin for a healthy immune system. It is present in the fat in your foods (or ‘fat soluble’). Whereas too much fat in the diet is a bad thing, too little could mean you’re missing out on vitamin E and other fat-soluble vitamins. Olive oil is a great source of vitamin E and monounsaturated fats, which are good for your heart as well as your immune system. Use it in cooking and in salad dressings.
Tests have shown pomegranate juice to be rich in antioxidants. They can neutralise damaging free radicals generated by a poor diet, pollution and cigarette smoke, all of which are implicated in heart disease, strokes, cancer and ageing. The juice contains three times the antioxidant properties of red wine or green tea.
Sardines are a rich source of omega-3 fats, another crucial nutrient for cells of the immune system.
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